THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Monday, April 15, 1996 TAG: 9604120031
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A6 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: Short : 39 lines
It is hard to understand the shortsightedness of the people of Norfolk who speak against a downtown mall. For years Norfolk was run by groups of so-called leaders very much like those today who are so vocally opposed to a downtown mall.
Prior to World War II, Norfolk was a stagnant city and ridiculed for its backwardness. Luckily, far-sighted, intelligent people turned the city around and started it growing. I feel I have a right to speak, as I am a Norfolk native, born here more than 75 years ago.
Norfolk is handicapped because of a shortage of land necessary for growth. Our affluent neighbors surrounding us controlled the legislature for many years and that fact made it impossible to allow the city to annex sufficient land to grow. Natural land growth ceased for all time, thereby setting the Hampton Roads area back 50 years or more.
Norfolk does need a downtown mall, not just for its citizens but for progress too. However, it must be a truly upscale mall to be successful. The proposed MacArthur Center mall seems to fit this category. It would definitely draw from all around: Eastern North Carolina, the Peninsula, the Eastern Shore, Williamsburg and even Chesapeake, Suffolk and Virginia Beach. Lots of people would appreciate the shopping opportunities the mall would provide.
As for hurting the shops downtown, I don't think this would happen. Mall shopping somehow is different. Women are smart shoppers and know their priorities. When they find a truly good shop, they become regular customers.
Remember, it must be an upscale mall which is the key to success.
CLARA WILKINS
Norfolk, April 2, 1996 by CNB